The Game-Changing Sound of Sonos Arc Ultra: Why Your Home Needs It

The Game-Changing Sound of Sonos Arc Ultra: Why Your Home Needs It

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Written By Eric Sandler

Sonos Arc Ultra: The Future of Home Theater Sound

As we mentioned in a previous article, Sonos has just unveiled its latest high-end soundbar, the Sonos Arc Ultra, but surprisingly, the launch has been fairly low-key. Given that it’s their top-of-the-line offering, you might expect a bit more fanfare, but recent issues—including one of the most disastrous app launches in recent memory—have left Sonos playing catch-up with its user base. In response, the company has made promises to improve product quality, which is why the Arc Ultra feels like a pivotal release for the brand.

But let’s not let the quiet launch overshadow what’s truly exciting here: the Sonos Arc Ultra is poised to be a game-changer in home theater audio.

At $999/£999, it’s packed with groundbreaking technology, making it the most advanced soundbar Sonos has ever produced. On paper, it’s truly a marvel, thanks in part to the SoundMotion technology Sonos acquired from Dutch firm Mayht in 2022.

This innovative tech allows the soundbar to deliver more powerful sound from smaller components, which not only results in a slimmer profile but also a significant reduction in power consumption—around 20% less than the original Sonos Arc.

Cutting-Edge Audio Tech

One of the most exciting features of the Arc Ultra is its enhanced Dolby Atmos support, now powered by 14 drivers arranged in a 9.1.4 configuration. That’s a major step up from the 5.1.2 setup in the original Arc. This new arrangement includes specialized tweeters with waveguides on both ends to direct sound more precisely, offering a more immersive audio experience. If you’re serious about your home theater setup, the Arc Ultra’s ability to fill a room with sound from all directions will redefine your expectations.

And if you’re a fan of bass-heavy experiences, Sonos claims the Arc Ultra delivers double the bass output compared to the original Arc, giving your movies and music that extra punch. The company’s proprietary Trueplay technology ensures that you can tune the soundbar specifically to your room, optimizing the audio based on your space’s acoustics.

Enhanced Dialogue Clarity

One common complaint with soundbars is that while they can deliver explosive sound for action scenes, dialogue often gets lost in the mix. Sonos seems to have tackled this issue head-on with the Arc Ultra, which boasts a redesigned center channel and a new Speech Enhancement feature.

Accessible via the Sonos app, this feature allows you to boost dialogue, making it easier to hear in dialogue-heavy scenes or shows where background noise and action tend to overpower speech. The three distinct modes within this feature should help address those moments where clarity is crucial.

Seamless Integration and Control

As expected from Sonos, the Arc Ultra integrates seamlessly with the wider Sonos ecosystem. You can control it via the Sonos app, Sonos Voice Control, or Amazon Alexa, and it supports Apple AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth, making it easy to connect to other devices. There are also touch controls on the soundbar itself, housed on a newly designed ledge behind the main unit for easier access.

PRE-ORDER ON AMAZON

The Perfect Partner: Sonos Sub 4

Sonos didn’t stop with just the Arc Ultra. They’ve also introduced a new subwoofer, the Sonos Sub 4, designed to complement the soundbar in larger spaces. Retailing at $799/£799, the Sub 4 features a matte finish and upgraded internals, including improvements to Wi-Fi for reduced power consumption.

With a more powerful subwoofer, this new model offers deeper, richer bass, and for those looking for even more immersive sound, you can pair two Sub 4s in one setup.

Ready for October 29th

Both the Sonos Arc Ultra and the Sonos Sub 4 are available to pre-oder on Amazon, and will be shipping on October 29th, and as with most Sonos products, you can choose between classic black or white finishes to match your home’s aesthetic.

Final Thoughts

While the launch of the Sonos Arc Ultra may have been understated, the potential impact on home theater systems is anything but. Packed with state-of-the-art features like SoundMotion technology, improved Dolby Atmos support, and a focus on dialogue clarity, this soundbar is set to redefine how we experience movies, TV shows, and music at home. Add in the new Sonos Sub 4, and you have the makings of a truly next-level audio setup.

If you’re serious about upgrading your home theater experience, the Sonos Arc Ultra and Sub 4 should definitely be on your radar.

Eric Sandler

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